RADICAL designs have been commissioned for the proposed Mersey bridge.

The computer-generated designs show a structure with three pillars instead of one.

And one has the bridge with just one carriageway in each direction but with extra lanes for cyclists and pedestrians.

Widnes-based Multi-Tech was commissioned to produce three dimensional models of the proposed Mersey Gateway and the Silver Jubilee Bridge. They also produced digital video clips showing a 'fly-through' of the proposed bridge.

The Ditchfield Road firm used software from the architectural, engineering and construction industries to design the models, using software employed by the film and video game industries which enables designers to create 3D virtual reality scenes through CAD and photographs.

Glenn Halton, Multi-Tech business development manager, said: 'As a local company we are delighted to be associated with such an important project as the Mersey Gateway.

'We work with some of the largest companies in the country, but we recognise the vital need for a new crossing over the River Mersey and hope our designs help to demonstrate to the Government that not only is the crossing of strategic importance but it also looks very impressive as well.

'The software we used to produce the models is cutting edge and is increasingly used to visualise new building concepts prior to capital investment.' Councillor Tony McDermott, leader of Halton Borough Council, said: 'It is pleasing a successful local company like Multi-Tech is supporting our bid for a new crossing.'